been a grand sight to have seen that portion of the Rebel army in their terror-stricer flight.  It is said by cittizens living on the road that they went in great confusion.  They had not time to hitch up their teams properly and that their Artilery horses balked.  that if we had have known their condition. that we could have taken their entire baggage train & artillery.  I would have been a great feat, but Col Dewey, acted with proper caution in not letting us after them, he supposed they were only making a feint to draw us across the river & then cut off our retreat.  All the prisners we took told us that we would have an opportunity of testing our bravery & skill.  Well I must begin to close up as it is getting late & I have to be up early & away.  I must say a few words about the house I am stoping in.  It is kept up by contribution of charitable persons.  every thing is comfortable & neat the Hostess a Lady.  her husband untiring in his efforts to render assistance to unfortunate soldiers from any Regiment.  If a discharged soldiers is not able to walk to the boat or cars or to carry his baggage they are taken in carriages.  The Lady is now in the room making arangements with the wounded about their beds.  She reminds me of Mrs. Cranshaw. she makes them stand around. Those who are able to walk well have to go up stairs.  she is Just the kind.  I have Just been talking a while with two Cavelry soldier one of them from the 1st Iowa.  They have seen hard times.  We have no right to complain.  I will write to you again in about one week if I have an opportunity.  I was in hopes I could see you & tell you of my disappointments. & prospects & C.  I could speak of them more freely than I can write.  I wanted to talk with you about your speculation, but I believe in my former letters I have said all that I could say if I saw you.  I am willing to risk your Judgement.  Write to me all about the funeral of our Col  Give my respects to all the friends.  & remember my dear wife that, that my thoughts & affections are centered on you, write often I am your affectionate husband. Lyle
